One trend that keeps accelerating: manufacturers are explicitly calling out ASTM F2659 electrical impedance meters as approved tools for moisture evaluation.
This is a big shift from a few years ago, when these meters were often treated as โscreening tools only.โ
Whatโs driving it?
โ
Nonโdestructive testing
Manufacturers want moisture data without drilling, patching, or damaging assembliesโespecially in finished or occupied spaces.
โ
Speed + coverage
Impedance meters allow technicians to scan large areas quickly and identify moisture patterns, not just pointโinโtime readings.
โ
Repeatability
ASTM 2659 provides a standardized method, which gives manufacturers confidence in consistency across jobs, techs, and regions.
โ
Better decisionโmaking
Instead of guessing where moisture might be, manufacturers can now require documented scans before remediation, flooring installs, or warranty decisions.
What this means for contractors & inspectors:
โข If youโre not using an ASTM 2659โcompliant meter, you may already be behind manufacturer expectations
โข Documentation from impedance scans is becoming more defensible
โข โApproved tool listsโ are expandingโand meters that meet ASTM 2659 are showing up more often
Important note:
Impedance meters still donโt replace inโsitu probes or RH testing where requiredโbut manufacturers are increasingly recognizing them as a legitimate, primary assessment tool for many applications.
To name a few:
1. Cali Floors
2. Trafficmaster
3. Artisan Hardwoods
4.Tarkett(qualitative purposes)
5.Sika
๐ฌ Curious:
Which manufacturers have you seen specifically call out ASTM 2659 meters in their documentation?
And how has that changed the way you test or report moisture?